Northern Circuit Route — 9 Days
Overview
The newest and longest route, and the one with the highest summit success rate thanks to its unrivalled acclimatisation. It follows the Lemosho start, then loops around the quiet northern slopes of the mountain — the only route that circles nearly the whole massif, giving 360° views and almost no crowds. Ideal if you want the best odds, the most solitude and time to enjoy the journey. Approach: West, circling to the North · Sleeping: Tents · Highlights: 360° panorama, remote northern slopes, best success rate
Itinerary
Distance ~6 km · 3–4 hours · Rainforest.
Distance ~8 km · 5–6 hours · Moorland.
Distance ~11 km · 5–7 hours · Plateau.
Distance ~10 km · 5–7 hours · Alpine desert. Ascend to the Lava Tower, then branch north to the secluded Moir Hut in a valley below the Lent Hills.
Distance ~12 km · 5–7 hours · Alpine desert. An optional climb of the Lent Hills for acclimatisation, then a traverse onto the remote northern slopes.
Distance ~8 km · 5–6 hours. Rounding the north side of the mountain with wide, empty views toward Kenya.
Distance ~5 km · 4–5 hours · Alpine desert. A steady climb to summit base camp on the eastern side. Rest early.
12–16 hours. The midnight ascent to the crater rim and Uhuru Peak, then a long descent to Millennium Camp.
Distance ~12 km · 4–5 hours. Final descent through moorland and rainforest to the gate.
Price Includes
- Kilimanjaro National Park entry, camping/hut and rescue fees
- Licensed, experienced mountain guides, cook and porter team
- Mountain tents, mattresses and camping equipment
- All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- Purified drinking water throughout the trek
- Transport to/from the trailhead gate
- Summit certificate
Price Excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees and travel insurance (including emergency evacuation cover)
- Tips for guides, cooks and porters
- Personal trekking gear (boots, poles, sleeping bag, warm clothing)
- Meals and accommodation before/after the trek in Moshi or Arusha
- Optional oxygen cylinder or private toilet tent hire
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